How to Build a Healthy Summer Cocktail

There is nothing better than enjoying a cool cocktail on a hot summer day. Whether you are relaxing on a patio, hosting a grill out or attending an epic pool party – the summer provides endless options to sip a your fave beverage of choice. However, no one wants those cocktails ruining their progress at the gym, so don’t let them! Healthy cocktails do exist and here is how you build one:

Pick your liquor! Clear liquors such as tequila, vodka and gin are best as they are made with less additives than their brown counter parts. The less alcohol additives, the less the body has to process, the more you can enjoy your day at the beach! A shot or 1.5 ounces of any liquor contains anywhere from 80 to 120 calories, so plan on about 100 calories per cocktail coming from alcohol alone.

Pick your mixer! This is always the hardest part because sodas, pre-made mixes, sweetened juices are all OFF limits because they pack way too many calories directly onto your bikini bod. Some great options include: club soda, seltzer water, fresh fruit juice, unsweetened tea, coconut water, black coffee or even plain water – yes, normal tap or bottled water will work.

Give it some personality! Yes, low calorie mixers can seem bland and flavorless but now comes the fun part! Mash up some fresh fruit to provide sweetness, needed antioxidants, fiber and beautiful color. Try muddling blueberries, raspberries, pineapple, limes, oranges, cucumber, mango, ginger or even watermelon. If you are making a large batch, throw some fruit combos in your blender for a gentle and efficient smash. Don’t stop at fruit – add an herb! Fresh mint, basil or parsley, again, not only adds flavor and color but antioxidants and aroma as well. If you’re really looking to step your nutrition game, try adding a vegetable or freshly made and pureed veggies. Think: vodka, carrot and mango or beet, gin and fresh ginger!

Your cocktail can be as basic or complicated as you want – so long as it looks good, tastes good and doesn’t make you feel overloaded with calories and sugar. My favorite go to will always be vodka, tap water and as much freshly squeezed lime juice as my hands can handle all on ice. Its light, crisp, refreshing and is roughly 100 calories total!! Happy sipping!